MITCHELL, S.D. — Dakota Wesleyan Football celebrated 21 athletes as a part of senior day and squared off against the Hastings Broncos in the final contest of the 2025 season.
The Broncos began the game with the ball and marched down the field to go up 7-0 following an 11-play, 89-yard drive. The Tigers and Broncos traded punts on the subsequent four drives following the opening touchdown. Still, Dakota Wesleyan was able to put together a drive into scoring range in the second quarter, even if it did not end in points for DWU. The Tigers were led by Steven Christion, who led the offense in receiving with 125 yards on a season-high eight receptions, while Jed Jenson went 16-31 on the day for 186 yards and two interceptions. The offense was able to string together positive plays, but struggled to capitalize on opportunities down the field, allowing Hastings to take control of the game. Another long drive from the Broncos (16 plays, 80 yards) ended the half at 14-0 in favor of Hastings. Dakota Wesleyan's defense held strong for a good portion of the game, but the Hastings rushing attack wore down the Tigers as the game continued. DWU's defense was led by seniors Brodey Ballinger and Grayson Hanson, who combined for 17 total tackles during the game.
The second half saw the Tigers get an efficient drive started, but a fumble just inside the red zone gave Hastings the ball back, leading to the Broncos extending their lead to 21-0 with a touchdown. The defense held strong through the rest of the contest, only giving up a field goal in the fourth, but a turnover on downs and back-to-back interceptions for the Tigers ultimately kept them out of the contest. Senior Connor Drake would enter the game and end his Tiger career with a 10-yard touchdown run to cap off a seven-play, 75-yard drive, bringing the score to 24-7 at the end of the game. Running back Koby Kayser ran for 33 yards on eight carries, while Cole Holden contributed to the offense with four receptions for 50 yards. Gavin Haselhorst and Parker Barnes each recorded one-and-a-half sacks defensively.
DWU Football will return in the fall of 2026. Stay up-to-date on postseason awards and news here.